“I’ve taken the time to read over your goals for this Assembly and the goals of the sessions you will be attending,” stated Gates. “In these discussions I see a lot of hope for pathways forward. I see frameworks that can lead to consensus on the most pressing issues of our times.”

Niagara Falls MPP Wayne Gates addresses First Nations assembly

“In these discussions I see the desire to finally have a plan that can say that economic development and environmental protection can work hand-in-hand. A plan that says the legacy of the residential school system will finally be treated with the importance it deserves and the recognition it still needs. I also see a desire to create a framework where we can discuss health alongside wellness and finally, I see hope that we can begin the much needed work towards a true nation-to-nation relationship.”

“There are those who will say that we have made great strides. But I challenge those people to pick up a paper and read about the recent stories in Grassy Narrows. Those stories show just how far we are from where we need to be.”

“Those stories highlight why the discussions happening here in this Assembly need to happen and why they need to be listened to.”

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“A politician thinks of the next election. A leader thinks of the next generation.” – Bernie Sanders

2 responses to “‘We’re Still Far From Where We Need To Be’ – Niagara Falls MPP Addressing Assembly of First Nations”

Gates is absolutely right. Good message, can’t complain about that but Wayne Gates is a good, sincere, well intentioned MPP. Unfortunate that he is also constrained in what he is able to achieve. He has the right visions and intentions but does the governing party pay any heed? He does represent his constituents but it would appear he is one of a rare breed. I look forward to the time when governments at all levels follow through with a genuine intent to speak “nation to nation” with respect and integrity.

Linda
Bernie Sanders, an American and a Social Democrat stated “A Politician thinks of the next election, a LEADER thinks of the next Generation”. When I look to most of the so called representatives of the people in the Niagara Region and throughout the entire Country I recall a phrase made by Ralph Nader …”It matter not which party one votes for Republican (Conservative) or Democrat (Liberal) they are both parties literally owned by Corporate North America and the blue collared electorate are not the movers and shakers that supply the bulk of the funding these politicians need and “work for” when they are up for election or re-election.This truth is evidenced by the decisions they make or don’t make when fat cat lobbyists spread funds like manna from heaven….I an over 80 years and I have seen and fought to no avail to change this sorry debacle that sees the rights of the citizens fall by the wayside as developers use BIODIVERSITY to fulfill their agenda. Will it change?I am sorry to say NOT in my last few years. but if the youth get involved it just might.